Prom Shoe Styles: 5 Stunning Trends to Try on the Big Night–and Beyond

Published by
Rachel Aschenbrand-Robinson
Image via @tyagii_

Finding the perfect pair of prom shoes is the next most important fashion decision you can make once you’ve found your dream prom dress. Your shoes for the big night need to not only complement your gown, but support you through hours of posing for photos and getting down on the dance floor. It’s a fairly tall order, but if you choose wisely, you can score a pair of heels that do all that without busting your budget–and maybe even find a pair you’ll actually wear beyond prom night. So how to snag this footwear holy grail? Ahead, we’ve rounded up 5 prom shoe trends to pick from. Each of the prom shoe styles here has major impact, not to mention serious post-prom potential. Happy shopping!

Clear Thinking

Arguably one of the trendiest looks out there, translucent heels have been having a moment–and it’s easy to see why. This Cinderella-esque shoe style matches with almost any dress, so you can get serious mileage out of a clear pair of heels–not to mention, they’re seriously leg-lengthening. Just don’t leave one behind at the end of the night!

Shop the Look (from left to right): Reggie Rose Suede Leather High Heel Sandals, Makayla Suede Vinyl High Heel Sandals, Issy Clear Vinyl Mules

Animal-Print Instincts

Who says prom shoes have to come in solid hues? Animal print-shoes are a fun way to add an unexpected element to your prom look, while still maintaining your glam vibe. And since these wild patterns are basically neutrals, they can pair with a wide range of dress styles and colors, from classic black to blush pink.

Shop the Look (from left to right): Simona Leopard Suede Pointed Toe Pumps, Arya Brown Zebra Print Suede High Heel Sandals, Erin Leopard Cow Hair High Heel Sandals

Sophisticated Sparkle

It’s your night to dazzle ’em, so go for it. Sparkly heels are a great way to kick your prom ensemble up a notch; it’s all in the details, after all. Whether you opt for glitter ankle-strap sandals or bejeweled satin pumps, adding an extra shot of shine will make your red-carpet look one to remember from head to toe.

Shop the Look (from left to right): Kailee Navy Satin Rhinestone Ankle Strap Heels, Taylor Multi Colored Glitter Ankle Strap Heels, Jazmine Champagne Satin Rhinestone Pumps

Strappy Minimalist

Sometimes less truly is more, so if you’ve picked a gown that’s a real showstopper (think head-to-toe sequins and the like), you may want to go with a barely-there prom shoe style for balance. Ankle-strap sandals that show some skin will elongate your legs and look chic–but they won’t steal the spotlight from your dress.

Shop the Look (from left to right): Sila Nude Suede Ankle Strap Heels, Sanremo Black Ankle Strap Heels,Ivanna Nude Patent Ankle Strap Heels

Lace-Up Lovelies

There’s something both sexy and delicate about lace-up heels: These ballet-inspired beauties add some oomph to any look, whether you wrap them around your ankles or lace them up your calves for extra drama.  Especially if you’re going short or midi length with your prom dress, consider stepping out in a pair of these statement-makers.

Shop the Look (from left to right): Gwyneth Nude Suede Rhinestone Lace Up Heels, Ashton Blush Suede Lace Up Heels, Kaira Black Lace Up Heels

Which prom shoe trend is your favorite? Shop our favorites and tell us yours in the comments!

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